What Every Traveler Should Know About Flying With Weed

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If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you were caught flying with weed, you’re not alone.

With the increasing legalization of cannabis in many states, more and more people are asking how to fly with weed, edibles, and other cannabis products without getting into trouble.

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In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the TSA rules for flying with weed and what happens when you get caught flying with weed, edibles, or other cannabis products on a plane.

We’ll also discuss what you can do to stay safe and avoid getting caught with weed on a plane.

While flying with a weed pen can be tricky, it’s doable with the right approach!

Long gone are the days when people hide the fact they smoke weed or consume edibles.  The Cannabis industry is now full of luxury high-brow smoking accessories and a trove of luxe edibles.

Maybe you spent the weekend in Vegas or decided to relax in Phoenix or Tempe, AZ, so of course, you stopped by one of the many dispensaries and picked up a “Lil something something” to take back home with you.

How do you get your cannabis, weed pens, Mary Jane, or vape pen from the destination to back home?  Flying with a weed vape pen can be scary if you have never flown with a vape pen or weed pen. 

How do you sneak weed on a plane? The issue of weed in the air has been debated over and over again, but the fact remains that thousands of people get busted every year attempting to transport marijuana across country lines.

Whether you’re planning to travel somewhere in the US or across an ocean, you’ll want to be prepared with these tips on how to sneak weed on a plane and stop asking can I bring a weed pen on a plane?

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Understanding TSA Rules on Flying with Cannabis

The role of the transportation security administration is to stop dangerous items from getting inside airplane cabins.

When they scan carry-on bags they are mainly searching for liquids (that could be flammable, safety hazards, or weapons that could be used on the plane.

The TSA doesn’t have any rules that refer directly to edibles, but there are some rules and procedures that are important to know about regarding flying with edibles.

Flying with cannabis can be a confusing and daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding the rules set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

While the legalization of cannabis is on the rise in many states, it’s important to remember that federal law still considers it illegal.

Therefore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the TSA rules to avoid any potential problems or legal issues when traveling with weed, edibles, or other cannabis products.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that the TSA’s primary focus is on security threats, such as explosives and weapons.

According to their official policy, the TSA’s main goal is to identify and prevent potential security risks from boarding an aircraft.

While they do not actively search for drugs, if they find them or if a drug-sniffing dog comes across them during the screening process, they are required to report it to law enforcement.

So, what does this mean for flying with cannabis? Well, according to the TSA, if TSA officers find marijuana or cannabis-infused products during the screening process, their policy is to notify local law enforcement.

The decision on whether to pursue criminal charges lies with the local law enforcement authorities which means you could go to jail or they could simply take your stash and let you go.

It’s worth noting that some airports, especially in states where cannabis is legal, have implemented policies that prioritize security over minor cannabis possession.

However, this varies from airport to airport, so it’s crucial to research the specific policies of the airports you’ll be traveling through.

When it comes to flying with THC vape pens, it’s important to follow the same guidelines as traveling with any other cannabis product.

The TSA checkpoint allows passengers to carry vape pens on a plane, but they must be placed in carry-on baggage and cannot be used during the flight.

It’s also important to ensure that the vape pen complies with the airline’s regulations on the size and quantity of liquids or batteries that are allowed onboard.

TSA agents are not actively going to search your carry-on bag or personal item for marijuana, disposable vape pens, or any vape products for that matter.

That should make you feel a little bit better if you were planning on bringing marijuana on a plane but you still need to understand that you can still get busted for marijuana even in states that have legalized it.

In some airports, you may find so-called “amnesty boxes” which are designed for you to drop your marijuana products into before heading through the airport.

Check out the TSA website which states Marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products, including some Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, remain illegal under federal law,” per the TSA. This excludes products with less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis or that are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. the rules and regulations before flying with weed or a THC Vape pen.

How to get weed through airport security

If you have joints simply put them in a cigarette case and then put that cigarette case wherever you would normally put it.

If you are traveling with just the flower empty any bottle of over-the-counter medication like Ibuprofen or purchase a smell-proof bag to put your weed in.

If you decide to use a medication bottle put some cotton balls on top of the weed then put ibuprofen on top of the cotton balls until it’s filled to the top.  No one will ever know!

Ladies put your edibles or pre-rolls in the OG Stash box which looks like a makeup box. 

Pack an extra purse and when you are flying with your vape pen put it in the zipper of your purse but make sure the vape cartridge or vape batteries are not attached.

If you get caught with weed while traveling through the airport nothing will happen to you other than the TSA will call local authorities and the police will throw the weed out and you will probably miss your flight.  

As I stated above TSA’s focus is on terrorism and security threats to the aircraft and its passengers. TSA’s screening procedures, which are governed by federal law, are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers not your small stash of weed.

Unless you are traveling with large amounts of weed or edibles it will probably go undetected in the screening process.

When asked if you’re carrying marijuana, play dumb and say something like, I don’t know what you mean. Marijuana? Do you think I have drugs? No way! Don’t be ridiculous.

Tips for Flying with THC Vape Pens

If you’re planning to fly with a THC vape pen, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Here are some important things to consider:

1. Research the airline’s website: Before packing your vape devices, make sure to check the specific regulations of the airline you’ll be flying with. Different airlines may have different rules and restrictions on the size and quantity of liquids or lithium batteries that are allowed on board. It’s always better to be informed to avoid any issues at the security checkpoint.

2. Carry your vaping devices in your carry-on bag: The TSA allows passengers to bring vape pens on a plane, but they must be placed in carry-on bags, not in checked luggage. This is because lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in vape pens, can pose a fire risk if they are damaged or overheated.

3. Remove the cartridge: To further comply with airline regulations and minimize any potential issues during the security screening process,

it’s advisable to remove the cartridge from your dab pen and pack it separately in a plastic bag. This will allow the security personnel to easily identify it and prevent any confusion or misunderstanding.

4. Turn off the vape pen: Ensure that your vape pen is turned off before boarding the plane. This is not only a safety precaution but also a consideration for your fellow passengers. Vaping on a plane is prohibited, so it’s important to refrain from using your vape pen during the flight.

5. Be discreet: While it’s legal to fly with a vape pen in some states, it’s still important to be discreet and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Keep your vape pen securely packed in your carry-on bag and refrain from discussing it openly or displaying it in public.

By following these tips, you can navigate the rules and regulations surrounding flying with a THC vape pen and ensure a stress-free travel experience.

Remember, it’s always better to be well-informed and prepared to avoid any complications or potential legal issues and this also includes disposable vapes and electronic smoking devices

Can You Bring Edibles on a Plane?

If you’re thinking about flying with edibles, there are some important things you should know to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

While the rules for flying with edibles may be similar to those for flying with other cannabis products, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind.

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that the TSA’s primary focus is on security threats, not necessarily on finding and confiscating drugs.

However, if they come across edibles or other cannabis-infused products during the screening process, they are required to report it to local law enforcement.

The decision on whether to pursue criminal charges lies with the local authorities.

To minimize the chances of getting caught with edibles at the airport, it’s crucial to be discreet and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.

Keep your edibles securely packed in your carry-on bag, and avoid discussing them openly or displaying them in public.

It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the specific policies of the airports you’ll be traveling through.

While some airports in states where cannabis is legal may prioritize security over minor cannabis possession, this varies from airport to airport. Researching the policies ahead of time can help you better understand the potential risks involved.

When it comes to the actual packaging of your edibles, it’s a good idea to keep them in their original, sealed packaging.

This can help establish that they are commercially produced and compliant with state regulations. If your edibles are homemade, it may be more difficult to prove their legality.

Lastly, it’s important to consider the potency of your edibles. Ingesting edibles can result in a stronger and longer-lasting high compared to smoking or vaping.

Keep this in mind when determining how many edibles to bring and when to consume them. You don’t want to be too impaired when traveling or risk attracting unwanted attention.

In conclusion, flying with edibles can be a tricky process, but by being discreet, understanding the TSA rules, and researching airport policies, you can navigate the situation more confidently.

Remember to always prioritize your safety and avoid unnecessary risks.

1. How Much Weed or Ediles Should You Fly With

Use common sense please folk!  Don’t fly a duffle bag full of edibles and flowers.

Buy only enough weed for your trip. If you’re in it for anything more than three days, consider buying an ounce or less, and putting it into multiple containers (for example, one in each pair of shoes).

Not only will that help you avoid overpacking, but it also means you can take advantage of TSA’s 3-ounce limit by taking out what you need without having to get rid of everything else.

It’s a federal crime. Only fly with how much you will actually need while you are traveling.  I suggest only flying with a small amount which is considered one-eighth.

Simply stated, an eighth of weed by weight is an eighth of an ounce. For reference, an empty soda can weighs about half an ounce.

By grams, an eighth of an ounce comes in at about 3.5 grams, which is just a bit more than your average penny that weighs 3 grams.

2. Where should You Stash Your weed When flying?

If you don’t want to have weed in your carry-on luggage bring an empty smell-proof bottle and fill it with weed but my personal favorites are the smell-proof bags from Amazon.

You could then roll up some plastic wrap into an egg shape and slip it inside the pill bottle before putting the top back on.

If you are packing edibles you can put them in your carry-on or in your checked luggage. Simply purchase a bag of resealable Haribo gummies from Walgreens or any convenience store empty the contents and replace them with your edibles.

No one will know the difference because edibles look exactly like candy from sour apple gummies, and mixed berries, to mango gummy rounds.

No need to spend your entire flight nervous, looking around, and freaking out thinking the police will be waiting on you once you land at your destination. 

Carry-on bags are likely to go unsearched while we know TSA will randomly go through your luggage and even if they do how will they really know the gummies are weed vs. regular candy you purchased to snack on while you are on vacation?

The same goes for hiding the flower as well.  TSA will probably not check your carry on so I suggest putting your flower buds in a smell-proof pouch or smell-proof bottle whether you are carrying on or checking your luggage.

Put the smell-proof bottle in your makeup bag and you are all set.  I promise you nobody is searching random pill bottles for weed of any kind. 

Click here for my complete list of cannabis accessories that will help you stay safe while flying with THC Vape pen.

3. Choosing Your Flight Time Wisely

Choosing an appropriate flight time is key to sneaking weed onto a plane. A full flight means more people in close proximity, increasing your chances of being caught.

Avoid traveling between 11 am and 4 pm because that’s when most business travelers depart and arrive—and they’re unlikely to pay attention to whether you smell like weed or not.

4. Be Respectful of TSA Agents

While it’s understandable that you want to try and sneak your goods past TSA agents, there are ways that you can do so without being disrespectful to others.

With these six tips in mind, you should be able to take advantage of flying with weed—and still avoid getting into trouble with TSA.

5. Don’t Be Rude When Questioned

You may have every right in the world to carry your weed, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be respectful and courteous when you’re questioned by security.

If you are being questioned, do not get aggressive or rude. Keep your cool and don’t act like you think they have no right to ask you what they are asking.

Once You Make it to Your Destination Then What?

Once you land you are technically in the clear so just be safe if you smoke weed in a foreign country and research the laws of the destination you are traveling to.

Don’t become the next Brittney Griner.

What to Do If You Get Caught with Weed at the Airport

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being caught with weed at the airport, it’s important to know what to do to minimize the potential consequences.

While every situation is different, here are some general steps you can take if you find yourself facing this predicament.

First and foremost, it’s important to stay calm and cooperate with the authorities. Getting angry or argumentative will only make the situation worse.

Remember that the TSA agents and law enforcement officials are just doing their jobs, and getting confrontational will not help your case.

Once you have been caught with weed, it’s likely that local law enforcement will be notified.

At this point, it’s important to be honest and provide any necessary information that they may ask for like your medical marijuana card. Lying or providing false information can lead to more serious charges and legal complications.

Depending on the circumstances and the state you are in, you may be given a citation or even face criminal charges.

It’s important to understand the laws of the state you are in and the potential penalties associated with cannabis possession.

If you are unsure about your rights or the legal implications of your situation, it’s always a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in cannabis laws.

It’s also important to note that the consequences of getting caught with weed at the airport can extend beyond legal ramifications.

Depending on your destination, you may be denied entry or face additional questioning by immigration officials. This can have long-lasting effects on your ability to travel internationally.

In summary, if you find yourself caught with weed at the airport, it’s important to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and be aware of the potential legal and travel consequences.

Remember to know the laws of the state you are in and seek legal advice if necessary. It’s always better to be informed and prepared to minimize any potential negative outcomes.

Consequences of Getting Caught with Weed at the Airport

Getting caught with weed at the airport can have serious consequences, both legally and in terms of your ability to travel.

While the specific outcomes may vary depending on the circumstances and the state you are in, it’s important to understand the potential ramifications and take the necessary steps to minimize any negative effects.

One of the immediate consequences of getting caught with weed at the airport is that local police will likely be notified.

This can lead to a range of outcomes, from receiving a citation to facing criminal charges.

The severity of the charges will depend on factors such as the quantity of cannabis in your possession and the local laws of the state you are in.

In addition to potential legal repercussions, getting caught with weed at the airport can also have an impact on your ability to travel internationally.

Depending on your destination, you may be denied entry or subjected to additional questioning by immigration officials.

This can create long-lasting difficulties and limitations when it comes to traveling outside of your home country.

It’s important to note that the consequences of getting caught with a vape pen on a plane can be similar to those of getting caught with weed.

Even if you are not carrying actual marijuana, if the vape pen contains THC, it is still considered a controlled substance.

This means that you may still face legal and travel consequences if you are caught with a vape pen that contains THC.

To navigate these potential consequences, it’s crucial to understand the laws of the state you are in and seek legal advice if necessary.

Being aware of your rights and the potential penalties associated with cannabis possession can help you make informed decisions and mitigate any negative outcomes.

the Harshest Cannabis Laws Around the World

Country	Prison Sentence for Marijuana Possession
Nigeria	4 Years
Uganda	5-10 Years
Tunisia	5 Years
France	1 Year Or Fine
Sweden	6 Months to 10 Years
Slovakia	3 to 5 Years
Saudi Arabia	1-6 months + Lashes
UAE	4 Years
Turkey	Fine or 5 Years Prison (Min. 2 years)
El Salvador	1-6 Years
Venezuela	2-3 Years
Singapore	10 Years + SG$20,000 + Caning
Malaysia	Fine + 2-5 years + Lashes
Indonesia	4-14 Years
Philippines	Up to Life Imprisonment
Brunei	Up to 30 Years + $20,000 Fine
Alabama (US)	1 Year + $6,000
Iowa (US)	$1,000 Fine
American Samoa	5 Years + $5,000
China	15 Days Detention Or Fine
Russia	15 Days – 3 Years
Japan	5-7 Years + $20,000

If you’re caught possessing, using, selling, distributing, or smuggling cannabis into these countries practicing strict prohibition, you’re likely to be met with the full force of the law, resulting in very harsh fines, long prison stints, or death.

So make sure you put your edibles or weed in the hotel safe or you can purchase a diversion can prior to leaving and no one will think to look inside a can of coke, deodorant, or even a bible.

18 States Where You Can Legally Purchase Recreational Weed

These are the 18 states, plus Washington, D.C., that allow recreational weed use—and medical marijuana, as well. New Mexico, Connecticut, and Virginia are the most recent additions, with legal weed permitted to residents in all three as of July 1.

Laws about possession, distribution, personal cultivation, and concentrates differ across state lines. NORML, a nonprofit group that advocates for marijuana reform, has a more detailed, state-by-state rundown.

Below are the 18 states along with hotels where you can smoking is permitted or have private balconies for those who would like to consume.

Alaska

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow up to six marijuana plants per household, but no more than three can be mature and flowering at a time.

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Arizona

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow five or fewer plants per household.

▶︎ BOOK the Clarendon Hotel & Spa now! 

California

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow five or fewer marijuana plants per household.

▶︎ BOOK the Fairmont Miramar Hotel now! 

Colorado

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow up to six plants per household, but no more than three can be mature at a time.

▶︎ BOOK the Patterson Inn now! 

District of Columbia

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to two ounces of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow up to six plants per household, but no more than three can be mature at a time.

▶︎ BOOK the Watergate Hotel now! 

Illinois

• It is legal for Illinois residents 21 and over to possess up to 30 grams of marijuana (roughly 1.06 ounces). Non-Illinois residents 21 and over can only possess 15 grams of marijuana (roughly half an ounce).
• It is legal for registered medical marijuana patients to grow up to five plants per household that are five inches or taller.

▶︎ BOOK the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile Hotel now! 

Maine

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to have up to three flowering plants and 12 immature plants growing per household.

▶︎ BOOK the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel now! 

Massachusetts

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana outside the home, and up to 10 ounces of marijuana inside the home.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow up to six plants per household.

▶︎ BOOK the Hyatt Regency Cambridge Hotel now! 

Michigan

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana outside the home, and up to 10 ounces of marijuana inside the home.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow 11 or fewer plants per household.

▶︎ BOOK The Inn at Harbor Shores now! 

Nevada

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow up to six plants per household if they do not live within 25 miles of a marijuana dispensary.

▶︎ BOOK The Cosmopolitan now! 

Oregon

• It is legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana outside the home, and up to eight ounces of homegrown marijuana inside the home.
• It is legal for adults 21 and over to grow up to four plants per household.

▶︎ BOOK Jupiter NEXT Hotel now! 

The 18 States with Legal Medical Marijuana

In addition to the 18 states plus D.C. with legalized recreational weed—and therefore legal medical marijuana—these 18 states have legalized just medical marijuana. NORML has a full rundown of each state’s law.

• Arkansas
• Delaware
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Hampshire
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Utah
• West Virginia

Useful Resources for Your Travel

• Expedia: the best website for finding cheap flight deals and hotels
• Hotels.com: another excellent hotel booking website for finding fabulous accommodations.
• Tripadvisor: this famous review website now allows you to book accommodation and tours directly as well.
• Get Your Guide: my favorite resource for finding tours and activities,
• Viator: another great option for finding fun things to do, skip-the-line tickets, and fabulous tours
• American Express: Apply for an American Express Card with this link.

Conclusion of How To Fly With Weed

Flying with weed can be a risky endeavor, even with the increasing legalization of cannabis in many states.

While it may be tempting to try and bring your favorite strain or edibles on your next flight, it’s important to weigh the potential consequences.

Getting caught with weed at the airport can lead to legal issues, ranging from citations to criminal charges.

That being said, if you do choose to fly with weed, it’s crucial to understand the TSA rules and regulations, as well as the specific policies of the airports you’ll be traveling through.

Being informed can help you minimize the risk of getting caught and potentially reduce any negative outcomes.

It’s also important to be discreet and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Keep your cannabis securely packed in your carry-on bag, follow airline regulations for vape pens, and avoid discussing your products openly.

In the end, it’s a personal decision whether to fly with weed, but it’s important to consider the potential risks and consequences.

Staying informed, being discreet, and prioritizing your safety are key factors to keep in mind if you choose to take the risk.

Again, here is my complete list of Cannabis accessories.

DO YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

YES! Travel Insurance is important no matter where you are traveling because accidents happen and you should always travel with insurance.

I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic and that was the one time I decided to forego travel insurance I racked up thousands of dollars in medical bills and they wanted their money before I would even be seen by the ER Doctors. 

I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.

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